A local superhero inspired by Saint Lucia’s iconic zandolie lizard is taking centre stage this Reading Month as Monroe University launches a new children’s storybook aimed at inspiring literacy, curiosity, and future academic ambition among young readers.
The publication, titled The Adventures of Zandoman and Friends, was authored by faculty members of Monroe University and features nine adventure stories designed to introduce children to university-level subjects in a fun and accessible way.
According to the university, the stories are built around subjects taught at the institution, including Management, Accounting, Information Technology, Project Management, Public Health, Research, Business Ethics, Cybersecurity, and Internship Practicum. Each chapter also includes puzzles, colouring activities, and glossaries to make learning more interactive for children.
At the heart of the initiative is Zandoman, a homegrown superhero whose story is rooted in Saint Lucian culture. The character’s name comes from the local zandolie lizard, while his origin story follows schoolteacher Mr. Wiseman, who gains extraordinary powers after rescuing the reptile from a bush fire. Alongside a team of friends, Zandoman uses his abilities to solve challenges linked to different academic subjects while teaching important life lessons.
The university says the initiative is intended to encourage children to embrace reading while exposing them to the possibilities of higher education from an early age.
The first public reading of The Adventures of Zandoman and Friends is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 at Dame Pearlette Louisy Primary School at 8:30 a.m. The reading campaign will then expand across all eight educational districts throughout Saint Lucia during Reading Month.
University officials expressed hope that the project will spark imagination among young readers and encourage more children to see themselves as future university graduates.
